Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme is a delicious and simple Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the salty, savory flavor of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of honey and the earthiness of fresh thyme. It’s a great appetizer or side dish that brings a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Golden Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe
Ingredients:
- 250g (8oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons honey (preferably a floral variety like wildflower or thyme honey)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Toasted bread or pita (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Halloumi:
- Remove the halloumi from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help ensure that it fries to a crispy golden brown.
2. Fry the Halloumi:
- Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the slices of halloumi in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
3. Add Honey and Thyme:
- Once the halloumi is golden on both sides, reduce the heat to low. Drizzle the honey over the fried halloumi slices and sprinkle with the thyme. Let the honey warm and become syrupy for about 1 minute, coating the halloumi.
4. Season and Serve:
- Sprinkle the dish with a little freshly ground black pepper for a touch of spice. Optionally, serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the halloumi for a bright citrusy contrast.
5. Serve Immediately:
- Serve the golden halloumi while hot, with toasted bread or pita to scoop up the honey and cheese. It can also be served as part of a mezze platter or as a topping for salads.
Tips:
- Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grains like couscous and quinoa.
- Add some crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts.
The combination of crispy, salty halloumi with sweet honey and fragrant thyme makes this dish irresistibly delicious!